Bargaining Update - May 26th

Dear REA,

​Having faced the difficult decision to stop pursuing a one year contract, the Bargaining Team met with the District to continue working on our previous proposals. On the agenda were Article 10 (Professional Development) , Article 13 (Academic Freedom) and Article 26 (Student Services). 

Among the important issues in Article 10 is language around how to implement professional learning communities. In Article 13 we sought to ensure members have the right to supplement curriculum without undue pressure from administrators. Article 26 introduces new language defining the role of the District’s newly developing DLI program.

After caucusing, the District brought back counters to each of those articles, as well as counters on Article 5 (Employee Rights) and Article 9 (Teaching Hours). While there has been some progress on each of these articles, some of the regressive measures introduced by the District (such as eliminating the 7 ½ hour Fridays, which has been in the contract for decades) illustrate how far our sides are on many of the issues. However, we are dedicated to continue bargaining next week, when we will bring counters to Articles 10,13 and 26. 

We understand how difficult this year has been for all of us and bargaining is just one of the many stressors we’ve had to contend with. The Bargaining Team wants you to know how much we appreciate your support, ideas, and feedback. REA is all of us and the Bargaining Team is here for each and every one of you. As we continue bargaining into next year we will need each other more than ever.

In Solidarity,
REA Bargaining Team

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